Is it winter yet? With the wavering temps over the past month, it’s been hard to tell. There was heavy rain and sleet along the southern coast yesterday morning, but we’re still waiting on the first big snowfall of the year. Are you prepared? Make sure you get your snow tires put on before too long—we’re hopeful that we’re in for a proper New England winter this year. Here’s our round up for this weekend in Maine: 

Something to Do:

Do you love the holiday season but struggle with gift giving? Head to Portland this weekend for the first annual Holiday Block Party on Washington Avenue to get your fill of holiday cheer while you shop! Participating businesses include The Post Supply, Maine and Loire, Strata, Onggi, Betoken, and more! Cocoa, holiday specials, and other holiday treats will be available while you browse. 

When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
Where: Washington Avenue, Portland 

Somewhere to Go: 

Want to find snow immediately? Head to the mountains! Saddleback Mountain’s opening weekend kicks off this Saturday with top-to-bottom skiing accessible from the South Branch Quad. Tickets are $39 for this weekend only, so grab your boots and shell and snag some fresh tracks.

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
Where: 976 Saddleback Mountain Rd, Rangeley

Something to See: 

Celebrate Maine’s thriving arts community at the opening reception for In the Dirt, a dual exhibition at Engine in Biddeford this Friday! Featuring the work of Maine artists Danny Gugger and Grace Foxen, In the Dirt analyzes the human urge to preserve and save discarded objects immortalized in ceramics and photography. The opening reception will also include a Maker’s Market, featuring crafts from local artisans. 

When: 5 to 9 p.m. Friday
Where: 163 Main Street, Biddeford 

Something to Make (and Eat): 

If you’ve never taken a cooking class at Stonewall Kitchen’s cooking school in York, now’s the time—the school is permanently closing on December 31! This Saturday, try your hand at A Gluten Free Feast. With a focus on seasonal, local ingredients from Maine producers, the menu includes a pistachio-crusted rack of lamb, a garlic cauliflower puree, and maple pecan brownies. 

When: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday 
Where: 2 Stonewall Lane, York

Something to Look Forward to: 

Ready to plan some winter excursions? Make your reservation for a stay at the Flagstaff Lake, Poplar Stream, or Stratton Brook huts, run by Maine Huts and Trails! Trips are either full or self service, which include bunk room rentals with the option of having food provided or bringing your own. The huts are opening on December 27 for the winter season, so be sure to make your reservations before the calendar fills up! 

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